High cholesterol is a higher than normal level of cholesterol in the blood. It is more common in adults but can occur in children.

There are two main types of cholesterol. One is high density lipoproteins (HDL) or good cholesterol. High levels of HDL have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. The second type is called low density lipoproteins (LDL) or bad cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to blockages in the blood vessels. This can lead to
heart attacks
and
strokes
.

The doctor may refer you and your child to a registered dietitian. They may also be referred to weight loss clinics or cardiologists if very high. In fact most pediatricians would not use statins without a cardiologist recommendation

The doctor may refer your child to a:

Registered dietitian

Weight loss center

Cardiologist (especially if statins may need to be prescribed)

Physical Activity

Other lifestyle changes include:

Encourage your child to participate in moderate or vigorous exercise every day. Examples include running, doing gymnastics, or playing soccer.

Limit the amount of time your child spends in front of a screen. This includes watching TV, playing video games, or using the computer. Aim for less than two hours in front of a screen per day.

Medicine

The doctor may recommend cholesterol-lowering medicine, like statins. Medicine is most often recommended if cholesterol is very high or your child has many risk factors for heart disease.

Prevention

For most children, high cholesterol can be prevented with healthy lifestyle habits such as:

Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

If your child is overweight, follow a safe weight loss program. Use a program recommended by your doctor or dietitian.

Encourage your child to participate in physical activity on a regular basis.

Talk to your child about the dangers of smoking.

Be a good role model for your child. For example, eat healthy food and participate in physical activities as a family.

Cholesterol levels in children and adolescents. American Academy of Pediatrics, Healthy Children.org website. Available at:
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Cholesterol-Levels-in-Children-and-Adolescents.aspx. Updated December 21, 2011. Accessed June 27, 2012.

High cholesterol levels in children. American Academy of Pediatrics, Healthy Children.org website. Available at:
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/nutrition/Pages/High-Cholesterol-Levels-in-Children.aspx. Updated January 17, 2012. Accessed June 27, 2012.

Nutrition and health for young people. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/nutrition/facts.htm. Updated January 20
, 2012. Accessed June 27, 2012.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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